Adapter For A Bag Tossing Game

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is an adaptor for a tossing game configured to be disposed on a supporting structure. The adaptor includes an impact surface toward which projectiles may be thrown, the impact surface comprising a plurality of raised portions having sloped surfaces on one or more sides of a respective peak thereof. A target aperture is configured to extend through the adaptor. A lip extends over an uppermost surface of the supporting structure, the lip being located at a first portion of the adaptor, the first portion being elevated over a second portion of the adaptor that is in proximity to the supporting structure. One or more fasteners secures the adaptor to a generally flat surface of the supporting structure.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Non-Provisional Patent Application of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/687,019, entitled “ADAPTOR FOR A BAG TOSSING GAME,” filed Jun. 19, 2018, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entireties.

BACKGROUND

Conventional bag tossing games include two target boards constructed from wood and a number of bags filled with dried sand, beans or corn for players to throw at the targets. While conventional bag tossing game sets are fun to play, there has been little innovation over existing games in creating new designs to entertain, challenge and engage players. To build on the popularity and the increased interest in such games (i.e., from tournaments), there exists a need for a bag tossing game that adds to the excitement and challenge associated with the game.

SUMMARY

An adaptor for an improved bag toss game is disclosed, substantially as illustrated by and described in connection with at least one of the figures. In particular, disclosed is an adaptor for a tossing game configured to be disposed on a supporting structure. The adaptor includes a non-uniform impact surface toward which projectiles may be thrown, the impact surface including one or more features to vary a topography of the impact surface. A target aperture is configured to extend through the adaptor toward the supporting structure. One or more fasteners secure the adaptor to a generally flat surface of the supporting structure.

Thus, a general object of the improved bag toss game is to provide a structural enhancement to a conventional bag tossing game system, which is easy to erect and deploy, easy to conceptualize and understand the gameplay, as well as provide a lightweight, durable game adaptor for a conventional game board.

These and other objects and advantages of the present invention, along with features of novelty appurtenant thereto, will appear or become apparent in the course of the following descriptive sections

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate an example adaptor for a bag tossing game, in accordance with aspects of this disclosure.

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate another example adaptor for a bag tossing game, in accordance with aspects of this disclosure.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate yet another example adaptor for a bag tossing game, in accordance with aspects of this disclosure.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate still another example adaptor for a bag tossing game, in accordance with aspects of this disclosure.

FIGS. 5A through 5E illustrate still another example adaptor for a bag tossing game, in accordance with aspects of this disclosure.

The figures are not necessarily to scale. Where appropriate, similar or identical reference numbers are used to refer to similar or identical components.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This disclosure relates to configurations of an adaptor for a tossing game configured to be disposed on a supporting structure. Specifically, this disclosure provides examples of the adaptor that includes an impact surface toward which projectiles may be thrown, the impact surface comprising a plurality of raised portions having sloped surfaces on one or more sides of a respective peak thereof. A target aperture is configured to extend through the adaptor. A lip extends over an uppermost surface of the supporting structure, the lip being located at a first portion of the adaptor, the first portion being elevated over a second portion of the adaptor that is in proximity to the supporting structure. One or more fasteners secure the adaptor to a generally flat surface of the supporting structure.

Conventional bag tossing games may include a two-part set of modular targets that include an inclined surface. Located at an elevated portion of the inclined surface is a target towards which bags or other projectiles are thrown to generate points in accordance with the given rules. In an example game, the target board is inclined by deploying one or more supports, such as a post, pillar, etc., that may be pivotally coupled to the underside of the target surface.

During play, the deployed target boards are placed on the ground with the front of each assembly facing the other. For example, a lower portion of the inclined surface is in contact with the ground, whereas a raised portion is elevated by the one or more supports. The lower portion is arranged to face the other target board in the set, such that a player is facing the target. The raised portion includes the target, which may include an aperture having a size to accept a hand-sized object (e.g., a beanbag). In some examples, the aperture is a round void in the surface, with a diameter of approximately six-inches around. However, other geometric shapes (e.g., oval, hexagonal, rectangular, triangular, etc.), as well as other sizes (e.g., greater or less than six-inches) are considered.

During play, bags are tossed toward the aperture of each respective target, and one or more rules determine point scoring by the players. For example, points are awarded when bags partially or fully penetrate the aperture, or when the bag remains on the target surface after a round of play. However, as explained above, this conventional configuration has been unchanged for decades. Despite the popularity of the game, there is a desire to design a new game that challenges, engages, and entertains players.

The presently disclosed systems improves upon the above-mentioned conventional systems by varying the topology of the impact surface, thereby allowing for different responses when a projectile makes contact with the surface. Accordingly, gameplay is more challenging, engaging, and entertaining.

FIGS. 1A and 1B provide different views of an example adaptor 10. For instance, FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of an example adaptor 10, as described with respect to the several figures. As shown in the example of FIG. 1A, the adaptor 10 may be defined by six side surfaces, such as an impact surface 12, a first lateral surface 16, a second lateral surface 18, a support mating side or surface 22 (opposite the impact surface 12), a top side or surface 20, and a bottom side or surface 23. Relative terms (e.g., front/rear, top/bottom, first/second, etc.) are used to aid in the reader's understanding of the adaptor's configuration. Although relative terms are used to describe the various surfaces and sides of the adaptor 10, any side can be considered a top/bottom/front/rear/first side/second side, depending on a particular design of the adaptor 10, the installation configuration relative to a support structure, and/or perspective of the viewer. For example, while in some examples a first side may be located opposite a second side, the terms “first side” and “second side” do not imply any specific order.

The impact surface 12 extends from the bottom side 23 to the top side 20. The impact surface 12 has a variable topography, such that one or more portions of the impact surface 12 between the bottom side 23 and the top side 20 represent varying heights relative to the support surface 22. For example, the impact surface 12 may define an incline from the bottom side 23 to a raised portion 26. The incline may be gradual or linear. In this example, from a peak the impact surface 12 slopes downward toward a low portion 24, which may or may not be located at a geometric centerline of a length measured between the bottom side 23 and the top side 20. From the low portion 24, the impact surface 12 draws another incline toward a second raised portion 27. In this example, second raised portion 27 has height less than the height of first raised portion 26 relative to the support surface 22. However, in some examples, the first and second raised portions have similar heights, or the second raised portion 27 may have a height greater than first raised portion 26.

The impact surface 12 extends from second raised portion 27 to a third raised portion 28. The impact surface 12 between second and third raised portions may be defined by a generally constant height relative to the support surface 22, or may be defined by an incline or decline. From the third raised portion 28, the impact surface 12 generally slopes downward toward a point defined by top side 20.

In an upper area of the impact surface 12, such as between the low portion 24 and the top side 20, an aperture 14 may be located so as to provide a target for a projectile such as a bean bag. The aperture 14 is of a size and shape to accept the projectile, while requiring an element of skill. For example, a beanbag may have an approximate size of 4 inches square or round. The aperture 14 may have an approximate size of 6 inches square or round.

The adaptor 10 further includes features to secure the adaptor to a support structure 40. As illustrated, a lip or bracket 30 is arranged at the top side 20. Further, one or more fasteners and/or attachment features 32 can be included on one or more sides of the adaptor 10. As shown in the example of FIG. 1B, the support structure 40 may include a generally planar board for a conventional bag tossing game. The support structure 40 is configured to rest on the ground or other surface 46, maintained at an inclined angle (θ) relative to the underlying surface 46 by one or more posts 42. In some examples, the posts 42 can be integral with the support structure 40. The support structure 40 may include a second aperture 44, which aligns with the aperture 14 during deployment of the adaptor 10.

During deployment of the adaptor 10 for gameplay, the lip 30 may come to rest on an edge of the inclined support structure 40, such as by gravity. One or more fasteners 34 may be employed to further secure the adaptor 10 to the support surface 40. In the example of FIG. 1B, the fastener 34 is a strap configured for insertion into the attachment feature 32 (i.e. a slot or hole). The strap 34 may be secured at one or more sides of the adaptor, wrapped around the underside of the support structure 40, and then secured at the opposite side of the adaptor 10 (such as by making taut by increasing tension on the strap 34). In this manner, the straps 34 secure the adaptor 10 to the support structure 40 such that impact from a projectile and/or movement not related to gameplay will not dislodge the adaptor 10 from the support surface.

Although illustrated as a strap-and-hole configuration, the attachment feature 32 and fastener 34 may be any combination of securing means suitable to attach the adaptor 10 to the support structure 40 (e.g., screws, clips, spring tensioners, rivets, bolts, press fit connectors, nails, hooks, buckles, cords, rope, Velcro, snaps, pins, etc.). In examples, the adaptor is configured to be removable from the support structure 40, therefore the fasteners 34 are generally of a type that allows for easy attachment of the adaptor 10 to the support structure 40 with common tools (e.g., a screw driver) or no tools at all (e.g., a bungee cord). In some examples, the mating surface 22 may be treated to increase friction between the adaptor 10 and the support structure 40. For instance, a polymeric material, semi-compressible foam, and/or other type of material may be applied to a surface of one or both of the adaptor 10 and the support structure 40 to prevent the adaptor 10 from sliding off of the support structure 40 (i.e. in response to gravity or impact forces from a projectile). The material may be separate from the adaptor 10 (e.g., applied as a disposable treatment) or may be integral with the adaptor 10 (e.g., applied during a manufacturing process). In some examples, the treatment includes placement of one or more grommets or other feature between the mating surface 22 and the support structure 40, to provide one or more of friction or cushion such that the surfaces are not damaged during gameplay.

When deployed, two adaptors 10 are secured to a pair of support structures 40, which are placed upon a supporting surface and spaced apart by a distance suitable for gameplay (e.g., a distance in accordance with one or more rules). Each adaptor 10 is oriented towards a player standing a distance away from the adaptor 10, such that the player is facing the inclined impact surface 12. During gameplay, one or more projectiles (i.e., soft bags filled with beans, etc.) are tossed by the players towards opposing adaptors 10. Points are awarded when bags penetrate the aperture 14, and/or, after a player's turn, bags thrown by the player remain on the outer, exposed impact surface 12.

As a result of the variable heights that define the topology of the impact surface 12, during deployment, the varying topology serves to hold or otherwise interact with the projectiles in a unique way. For example, conventional boards are flat, such that each projectile that impacts the flat surface will necessarily feel the generally downward forces from gravity. With the variable topology provided by the adaptor 10, projectiles will react to impact with the inclined impact surface 12 differently based on the variation that defines the particular impact portion. In examples, a projectile that impacts the adaptor 10 at a centerline at the low portion 24 may slide slightly toward the first raised portion 26, yet come to rest as the downward incline becomes a more level grade (i.e. by comparison to the inclined support structure 40, mounted below). Therefore, gameplay with the disclosed adaptor 10 adds an element of excitement, challenge, and engagement not possible in conventional boards.

Although illustrated as having a particular number of raised and lower portions, as few as a single raised portion, as well as multiple raised and lowered portions, may be provided on the impact surface 12. Moreover, the raised and/or lowered portions may not extend from side 16 to side 18, may be unevenly spaced, and/or may cross the impact surface 12 horizontally, vertically, or at a diagonal. Additionally or alternatively, the adaptor 10 may cover only a portion of the support structure 40, such that one or more areas of the underlying support surface 40 are exposed through the impact surface 12. Further, the example adaptor 10 may include other features and/or components not specifically discussed herein.

The adaptor 10 is provided in a variety of sizes to accommodate different styles of bag tossing games. In an example, the adaptor 10 is generally 2-feet wide (i.e. from side 16 to side 18), 4-feet long (i.e. from bottom side 23 to top side 20), with a circular hole having a 6-inch diameter at a generally central position within a raised portion of the top area, approximately 9 inches down from the top side 20. This example configuration is suggested for regulation, tournament play. Furthermore, the adaptor 10 may be constructed from a variety of materials. For instance, durable, waterproof materials, which includes plastics, treated wood, composites, metals, or other suitable materials are considered.

Additional or alternative example adaptors 10 are provided in FIGS. 2A-4B. Where common features are illustrated, the same reference numerals will be used to aid in the readers understanding. For example, FIG. 2A is a view of another example adaptor 10 from a perspective view of the mating surface 22. As shown, the adaptor 10 is a generally hollow shell that follows the contours of the impact surface 12, bordered by the first, second, top and bottom sides. For added strength and/or stability, one or more ribs 48 have been included. The ribs 48 may extend between the first and second sides, the top and bottom sides, and/or be arranged at an angle. The number and/or spacing of such ribs 48 is dependent on the material used to construct the adaptor 10, the desired load bearing properties of the adaptor 10, and/or other structural and or design considerations for constructing adaptor 10. As shown in FIG. 2B, the aperture 14 is unobstructed by ribs 48, such that a projectile may pass through the adaptor 10 to reach the second aperture 44 of the underlying support structure 40.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show another example adaptor 10. In this example, the feature 32 is a tab with a hole extending past the edge of the first and second sides. In this manner, once mounted on the support structure 40, the adaptor 10 can be secured to the support structure via a screw or other fastener through the tab. Moreover, a cylinder 50 is provided, which can extend through the adaptor 10 to either fill the void between the impact surface 12 and the mating surface 22, and/or fit into the second aperture 44. In some examples, the cylinder 50 is formed as an integral feature of the adaptor 12. Alternatively, the cylinder 50 is removable from the adaptor 10 and/or adjustable to accommodate various boards/apertures of different support structures.

FIGS. 4A and 4B show another example adaptor 10 similar to FIGS. 2A and 2B. In this example, the interior of the adaptor is without ribs 48, and the cylinder 50 extends from the impact surface 12 toward the mating surface 22. As shown, features 32 are dual slits to accept a fastener 34, such as a strap, clip, or other type of fastener. Although shown as generally oblong slits, the feature 32 may be a round hole or other shape and/or size as needed to accept a particular fastener 34. Further, top side 20 illustrates the lack of a lip 30, such that the underlying mating surface 22 is generally uniform with respect to mating with the flat surface of the underlying support structure 40.

FIGS. 5A through 5E show yet another example adaptor 10. The illustrated adapter 10 shares similar features to the preceding figures, however, is additionally or alternatively configured to fold. In the example of FIG. 5A, the adapter 10 is defined by a first portion 56 and a second portion 58 separated at a centerline 51 at or near low portion 24. At the underside, identified with reference numeral 52, is one or more features to secure the first portion 56 to the second portion 58, such that the first and second portions 56, 58 may fold along the centerline 51 for ease of transportation and storage, for example. Once extended (i.e. unfolded) the adapter 10 may be secured to an underlying support structure 40, as explained herein.

Additionally or alternatively, one or more locking features can be provided to hold the adapter 10 in an extended configuration. Furthermore, one or more features (e.g., fasteners) may be employed to secure ends 12 and 20 together when folded. The features may be fixed to the board (e.g., a hook-type fastener) and/or separate from the board to be applied

Although illustrated as two half-portions of substantially equal length, other embodiments can include two or more separations and/or folding lines having one or more hinged joints. Some example configurations can include one or more lengthwise separations secured by such a hinged joint. In some examples, the portions may be configured to separate, such that individual portions may be disassembled individually, to facilitate transportation and/or for a variety of modular stacking and/or assembly options. In some examples, one or more of such joints may be hinged (e.g., with a hinge similar to hinge 52), with a removable connector, a snap-fit connector, a screw-enabled connector, and/or other type of fastener.

As shown in FIG. 5B, the hinge 52 may extend the width of the adapter 10. The hinge 52 therefore ensures consistent alignment between the first and second portions 56, 58, over repeated folding and extensions. In some examples, the hinge 52 is two or more hinges, and/or one or more fastening features, as disclosed herein. Additionally or alternatively, one or more grommets 54 may be placed at the underside of the adapter 10 to provide one or more of friction or cushion between the mating surface 22 and the support structure 40.

FIGS. 5C and 5D illustrate the adapter 10 folded along centerline 51. FIG. 5E shows the adapter 10 fully folded and closed, such that the underside of both first and second portions 56, 58 face one another. Thus, the external surface of the adapter 10 remains exposed when folded. In some examples, compartments may be situated within the underside (i.e. between or in place of ribs 48) to accommodate game accessories and/or fasteners. Further, once folded one or more carrying features, such as handles or other straps, may be drawn from the underside/folded interior of the adapter 10, or otherwise attached to the adapter 10 for ease of transportation.

Although illustrated as generally rectangular, the adaptor 10 may take any variety of shapes. For example, the adaptor 10 may extend over the sides defined by the support structure 40, such as a design similar to a T-shape, an L-shape, a rounded/elliptical shape, or other geometric frame and/or pattern to further enhance gameplay. Additionally or alternatively, the adaptor 10 may include a plurality of apertures (e.g., holes) arranged in a variety of locations on a surface of the adaptor 10 (e.g., the impact surface 12). For example, the adaptor 10 can include one or more raised portions of various heights and contours, such as arranged in a geometric or other pattern. In some examples, the raised portions may be arranged in a series of circular rings with central holes, similar to a “skee-ball” type game. For instance, the optional aperture 14 (and corresponding aperture 44 of the support structure 40) may be closest to the opposing game board, while additional apertures are arranged on one or more portions of the adaptor 10 that extends beyond the sides of the support structure 40.

However, the size and/or shape of the adaptor 10, as well as the arrangement of apertures, is not limited to any particular game. Therefore, apertures may be located at various selected positions on the adaptor, providing expanded opportunities to score points and/or increase the challenge of gameplay. In another example, the adaptor 10 may represent a golf type game, such as a putting tee. Further, in some examples, the adaptor 10 may be configured to rest upon or be otherwise secured to another frame or structure different from a conventional bags game board.

Accordingly, as disclosed herein, the unique configuration of components provides multiple advantages over existing designs.

As utilized herein, “and/or” means any one or more of the items in the list joined by “and/or”. As an example, “x and/or y” means any element of the three-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}. In other words, “x and/or y” means “one or both of x and y”. As another example, “x, y, and/or z” means any element of the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x, y), (x, z), (y, z), (x, y, z)}. In other words, “x, y and/or z” means “one or more of x, y and z”. As utilized herein, the term “exemplary” means serving as a non-limiting example, instance, or illustration. As utilized herein, the terms “e.g.,” and “for example” set off lists of one or more non-limiting examples, instances, or illustrations.

While the present method and/or system has been described with reference to certain implementations, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the present method and/or system. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from its scope. For example, systems, blocks, and/or other components of disclosed examples may be combined, divided, re-arranged, and/or otherwise modified. Therefore, the present method and/or system are not limited to the particular implementations disclosed. Instead, the present method and/or system will include all implementations falling within the scope of the appended claims, both literally and under the doctrine of equivalents. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An adaptor for a tossing game configured to be disposed on a supporting structure, the adaptor comprising: a non-uniform impact surface toward which projectiles may be thrown, the impact surface comprising one or more features to vary a topography of the impact surface; a target aperture configured to extend through the adaptor; and one or more fasteners for securing the adaptor to a generally flat surface of the supporting structure.
 2. The adaptor as defined in claim 1, wherein the one or more features comprises a raised portion with a sloped surface on one or more sides of a peak thereof.
 3. The adaptor as defined in claim 2, wherein the raised portion extends laterally across the impact surface.
 4. The adaptor as defined in claim 2, further comprising a mating surface opposite the impact surface, wherein the raised portion is a first raised portion with a first height measured from the mating surface, the adaptor further comprising a second raised portion with a second height measured from the mating surface.
 5. The adaptor as defined in claim 4, wherein the first raised portion is located below a horizontal centerline of the impact surface.
 6. The adaptor as defined in claim 4, wherein the second raised portion is located above a horizontal centerline of the impact surface.
 7. The adaptor as defined in claim 2, wherein the raised portion has a horizontal length less than a width of the impact surface.
 8. The adaptor as defined in claim 2, wherein the raised portion has a horizontal length less than half of a width of the impact surface.
 9. The adaptor as defined in claim 1, wherein the supporting structure comprises an inclined plane having a void configured to align with the aperture when the adaptor is disposed on the supporting structure.
 10. The adaptor as defined in claim 1, wherein the one or more fasteners comprises an lip to extend over a uppermost surface of the supporting structure, the lip being located at a first portion of the adaptor, the first portion being elevated over a second portion of the adaptor that is in proximity to the supporting structure.
 11. An adaptor for a tossing game configured to be disposed on a supporting structure, the adaptor comprising: an impact surface toward which projectiles may be thrown, the impact surface comprising one or more raised portions having a sloped surface on one or more sides of a peak thereof; a target aperture configured to extend through the adaptor; and one or more fasteners for securing the adaptor to a generally flat surface of the supporting structure.
 12. The adaptor as defined in claim 11, wherein the one or more fasteners comprising material suitable to secure the adaptor to the supporting surface, the material comprising one or more of a plastic, metal, synthetic or natural fabric.
 13. The adaptor as defined in claim 11, further comprising a mating surface opposite the impact surface, the mating surface configured to mate with the inclined plane of the supporting structure.
 14. The adaptor as defined in claim 11, further comprising one or more lateral sides extending the length of the adaptor, the one or more lateral sides configured to receive one or more fasteners to provide stability and tension for the one or more fasteners.
 15. The adaptor as defined in claim 11, further comprising a plurality of ribs configured to reinforce the adaptor, the ribs extending across a length or a width of the adaptor.
 16. The adaptor as defined in claim 11, further comprising a cylindrical ring configured to fit into the aperture and extend toward the supporting surface.
 17. The adaptor as defined in claim 11, wherein the supporting surface is a wooden bags game board.
 18. The adaptor as defined in claim 11, wherein the adapter comprises a first portion and a second portion separated by a centerline, wherein a hinge is secured to the first portion and to the second portion to allow the adapter to fold along the centerline.
 19. The adaptor as defined in claim 11, wherein the one or more fasteners comprising one or more of a screw, a clip, a spring tensioner, a rivet, a bolt, a press fit connector, a nail, a hook, a buckle, a cord, a rope, a Velcro attachment, snaps, a pin, or any combination thereof.
 20. An adaptor for a tossing game configured to be disposed on a supporting structure, the adaptor comprising: an impact surface toward which projectiles may be thrown, the impact surface comprising a plurality of raised portions having sloped surfaces on one or more sides of a respective peak thereof; a target aperture configured to extend through the adaptor; a lip to extend over a uppermost surface of the supporting structure, the lip being located at a first portion of the adaptor, the first portion being elevated over a second portion of the adaptor that is in proximity to the supporting structure; and one or more fasteners for securing the adaptor to a generally flat surface of the supporting structure. 